Matilda Mae: The Dog Who Needed a Name Paperback – 8 September 2011

Matilda Mae is a wonderful story for children with adorable illustrations to match.Before Matilda Mae was given a name, she was alone, scared and insecure. Once she got adopted she was able to experience the true meaning of "home." If only all dogs were as fortunate!I purchased this to see if it would be a good story for my friend's youngest daughter and am happy to report that it will make the perfect gift.Kudos to the author for having the ability to put together a wonderful tale of what really does happen in the real world, but softening it a bit so that it is ideal for children.

Matilda Mae, written for children approximately eight years and older, held my adult attention from the beautifully illustrated cover to the author's photo with the real Matilda Mae at the end. Because it is based on the real life of Matilda Mae, the story felt authentic and unfolded naturally. Matilda Mae's story begins with her birth in a puppy mill and follows her life until she is adopted and given her name. Ms.McGaughy considered the age of her readers. The text did not "talk down" to them and was supplemented by enough pictures to add to the interest without appearing "babyish". While showing that the dog breeder was more interested in money than the welfare of dogs, the author did not go into graphic detail describing puppy mills. Again, the age of her readers was appropriately addressed. The importance of a name was stressed by six questions Matilda Mae asked in chapters five, six and eight. In the last chapter, her name is used as each question is answered. As a former educator, I believe stories are powerful ways to teach values, in this case, care and empathy for our non-human companions. And who doesn't love a story about a cute puppy with a happy ending!

This book appeals to me to foster a love of all animals, and good care for them, to my young grandchildren.

Too much text and lack of comprehensible content..What's the message? There are so many routes to take regarding the main idea of the story.